March 4, 2020 Tofield Mercury

Mercury

$1 GST INCLUDED Vol. 102 No. 27, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

The Tofield

Over 100 years as your #1 source of news, advertising, and opinions

YOUR LOCAL PAPER Established in 1918 in Tofield, Alberta

Tofield business owners open the firstever cannabis store in Beaver County

Ryley & Holden presentations to BRSD emphasize communication is key

Page 2

Page 3

6 Weeks to go until Snow Goose Festival 2020

April 25-26, 2020

Winter’s here to stay

Tofield and rest of Beaver County turned into a winter wonderland on Saturday, Feb. 29 with snowfall recorded at six to eight inches. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

Page 2 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Tofield opens its first cannabis store, owners happy with response Moush John

Tofield Mercury

After a long and arduous journey, co-owners of Nobal Buds – Brad Brooks and Ian Mansley – were happy to welcome customers on Friday, Feb. 28 to their new facility in Tofield, the first-ever cannabis store in all of Beaver County.

Blown away by the

positive response, Mansley said that the first few days since the opening have been hectic, which is how they would like the business to be.

“We’ve been very busy, with the store being new and all; now we will have to see where it goes,” Mansley said. “our expectations this opening weekend have been mind-blowing . . . I just

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hope the trend continues.”

Both Brooks and Mansley have “worked hard” to give customers competitive pricing so that they can source their supplies from the local store without having the need to go into cities.

Having operated businesses before they have worked out the details to keep a lower overhead.

“We can offer better pricing on our product because we have a lower overhead than most stores in larger urban centres,” Mansley explained. “By doing this, we hope to encourage customers to shop local, as well as have people come from out of town to shop.”

With the feedback being positive so far, from both

customers and non-consumers, Mansley feels they are headed in the right direction.

“We are aware that our supply of some product lines are a little low, but we’re working on it to fix

it as more supplies are available in the future,” he added.

Continued on Page 7

Co-owners, Brad Brooks, left, and Ian Mansley in front of their cannabis shop, Nobal Buds on Friday morning, Feb. 28, after the ribbon cutting. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Page 3

Ryley and Holden presentations to BRSD emphasize communication key to success Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter

Four communities whose schools are under threat of closure by the Battle River School Division (BRSD) had an opportunity on Thursday, Feb. 27 in Camrose to make presentations to the board of trustees in support of their schools.

Round Hill presentations were done in the morning, followed by Hardisty, then Ryley and Holden combined in the afternoon.

The board heard from 15 delegations in all.

Village of Ryley CAO Glen Hamilton-Brown

made the first presentation, accompanied by Mayor Terry Magneson.

“There have been lots of good points made here today,” he said, referring to those made by other schools under threat of closure.

“Everyone’s thinking the same thing.

“Today has portrayed many factors the board may not have considered yet, from all options on the table,” he said.

“I think the BRSD must tap the immovable force of those communities.

They are going to find alternatives. Our communities, those families, they are going to find success; work with us, or lose in

the end.

“I think that instead of pulling out, and not being part of the solutions, there needs to be changes.

“I think that we at the communities are partners with you in managing your clients, which are those communities.”

Hamilton Brown echoed Hardisty CAO Sandy Ott’s earlier plea to the board: “Don’t make this decision in a silo.”

“BRSD cannot continue to operate the same way; it needs to find alternatives innovative ideas,” he said.

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SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL – APRIL 25 - 26, 2020 Spectacular spring sights Flocks of pelicans take flight in ‘V’ formation creating a spectacular sight across the prairies One of the most spectacular sights of late summer and early fall on the prairies is a “V” or line of pelicans in flight.

Their huge wingspans stretch a full three metres in brilliant black-tipped white against a blue sky.

The flock glides effortlessly with gentle, easy strokes. Their necks are folded back against the shoulders, distinguishing the pelicans from other large white water birds in flight. In a gentle spiral, the pelicans descend and gracefully alight on a prairie slough.

The American white pelican is somewhat less graceful on land. Its heavy body perches

awkwardly on rear-set legs, forcing it to waddle along. The pelican is unmistakable in profile. It is a large white water bird with black wing tips.

The breast feathers are touched with yellow.

The bill is long, flattened, with a very conspicuous pouch, yellow with a reddish tinge, American white pelicans have orange feet. During breeding season a bony outgrowth appears on the upper bill and a yellow crest appears on the head.

The white pelican spends breeding season on interior lakes in both treeless and forested country from western Canada as far north as

Lake Athabasca to southern California, northern Utah, southern Montana, and South Dakota. In winter, the pelicans live in coastal and freshwater lakes from the southern united States to Guatemala.

Pelicans nest in colonies in marshes, on low bare islands in fresh or salt waters. They are so sensitive to disturbance that whole colonies are likely to desert, particularly when human activity is too close. The nest is usually a large mound of earth and debris, up to a metre across, with a central unlined hollow. Sometimes the nest is just a slight depression in the

ground. The breeding season begins in early April in the south, to late May and early June in the north. White pelicans usually lay two elliptical, dull white eggs. Both parents share the incubation period of about 29 days.

The chicks are ugly, naked and fleshcoloured when they hatch but they are covered with thick white down within ten days.

They grow quickly but mature slowly. Siblings hatch at intervals so each nest has young at different growth stages. The very small young take regurgitated liquid food from the inside of the tip of the parent’s bills. At

three weeks they can stand and usually the chicks leave the nest and huddle together in large groups while still unfeathered. Adults continue to visit and feed the young until they can fly at seven to ten weeks of age.

Pelicans are highly gregarious. Besides nesting in colonies, they roost, fly and feed in flocks. Although they sometimes dive from the air, they usually catch their food by dipping their bills into the water while swimming or wading. They eat fish, frogs, and salamanders which are often found in marshes. The fish include vast numbers of

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minnows and most of the larger species that they catch are slowmoving non-game fish of little interest to humans. Breeding adults sometimes fly up to 150 miles from the nest to feed.

Although its numbers have decreased in many of its prairie haunts, the white pelican is the first threatened bird species to be officially de-listed by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. To come across a flock of these odd birds in a prairie pothole or Ducks Unlimited Canada project, or see them flying so gracefully overhead is truly a wonderful sight.

Page 4 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Tofield FCSS gets new Community Programmer Moush John Tofield Mercury

Tofield/Ryley/Beaver County West Family and Community Support Services (TRBW FCSS) has a new Community Programmer, Samantha Giegold.

Giegold who has spent most of her life in the community of Tofield decided on taking up this position after completing her studies in Addictions and Community Service Work.

TRBW FCSS Director Tracey Boast Radley is excited to work with Giegold and said, “Her familiarity with our service area (Tofield/Ryley/Beaver County West), outgoing nature and experience will be an excellent benefit to our community members.

“As FCSS work focuses on preventive social programs, there are plenty of opportunities for Sam to build a variety of programs that meet commu-

nity needs. Sam is currently reviewing the FCSS Handbook and learning all that we can offer in our communities.

TRBW FCSS is working on a social needs assessment and the results will help drive future work for Sam to participate in.”

On why she decided to pursue a career in this field, Giegold explained, “I have been passionate about mental health for as long as I can remember, and it’s not every day that a job pops up in a

Obituary LORNA FORRE

It is with great sadness, the family of Lorna Forre announces her passing on

February 26, 2020 at the age of 86.

Lorna is survived by her loving children Larry, Gail, Jay, Monica and Shawn; her loving grandchildren Ryan (Siobhan) Forre and Joshua Forre; siblings Joyce Jonson, Marlene (Harvey) Forre and Russ (Diane) Olson.

Cremation has taken place and a private family serv-

ice will take place at a later date.

A special thanks to Doctor Abuzehar and staff at the Tofield Health Centre, and Home Care staff.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to WIN House, or the charity of your choice.

Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959

small town related to my education, so when I saw that FCSS was hiring I jumped at the opportunity. Tofield is my home and I plan on spending my life here, so I was very excited to get hired for this position.”

Currently, her primary role is to help develop and carry out programs that will benefit our community.

“Programs can be anything from youth activities to tax clinics,” Giegold added. “Being so new I am yet to experience challenges, but as for any job I’m sure there will be some down the road. Being part of a support service and helping people to work towards independence is incredibly rewarding, and being in a small town where you see the people you help is a constant reminder of how the smallest act of kindness can make someone’s day. I hope in time people see

New Community Programmer Samantha Giegold.

MOUSH JOHN PHOTO me around town helping to create a mentally healthy and independent community.”

TRBW FCSS has recently signed on as a partner in the CMHA

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Rural Mental Health Project, which makes this an excellent first project for Giegold to wet her feet in the world of FCSS, according to Radley.

“Sam is currently being trained as a Community Animator for this project along with Loretta Kroeker and will aim to support mentally healthy environments by engaging a variety of community stakeholders,” Radley stated. “Together they will work to determine the mental health landscape for our service area by identifying available services/resources, identifying gaps and determining a path forward to create mentally healthy communities.”

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Page 5

Loose Ends: No can do

Carol Livingstone Tofield Mercury Columnist

Last night I couldn’t snap my fingers. I’m not sure why I was trying – it wasn’t like my glass

needed refilling and the bartender’s attention was on Pamela Anderson – but I’m at that stage of life (old) that I don’t ask why as often as I once did (or perhaps as often as I should). Instead I got a little frustrated when no snaps sounded, no matter which of my ten fingers I tried. No sound at all, not even with my fingers up against my ear. Pathetic or what? I bet even monkeys can snap their fingers. Snakes too.

Okay, it wasn’t the end of the world; I’ve never been a real good snapper anyhow. So this morning I reminded myself that Erma Bombeck (my idol) always said ‘Don’t sweat the small stuff’ and stopped rubbing my fingertips together before they started to blister. Besides I can clap my hands with the best of them, no sweat.

Now I’m reviewing other little things I can’t do, like blow a raspberry.

You know, blow a puff of air out of your mouth, making your lips vibrate.

I bet Angelina Jolie’s good at that. Even newborns can do it. My grandson collapses with glee every time I try because all I get is a poof of air. I have to find other ways to show my distain and often end up swearing or walking haughtily away. I’m good at both of those. And also sticking out my tongue and saying Nyah-nyah. But no

raspberries.

I’ll also admit that I’m not much of a whistler.

Sometimes when I pucker up and blow, I’m rewarded with a weak little peep that has mommy birds checking to see who has fallen out of the nest, but mostly it’s just more air. I seem to be full of that. I don’t feel as inept over this one though. I’d really rather hum a few lines or even burst into song, the latter sounding better when I was

Impaired driver runs into tree in town Cst. Andrew Gillan Tofield RCMP

Tofield RCMP responded to a total of 34 calls for service in the past week including four traffic complaints and two Motor Vehicle Colli-

sions. Eight violation tickets were issued by K Division Traffic Services who were working in the area during the week.

On the afternoon of Feb. 24 RCMP were requested to do a welfare check on a male in

Tofield. The complainant had heard through the grapevine that their brother had passed away but he was never notified. The brother was located alive and well and the complainant was updated.

Also on the afternoon of Feb. 24, RCMP assisted Child and Family Services with checking on a youth in Holden. The youth was found in good spirits and was well taken care of.

Midday on Feb. 25 RCMP responded to a call of mischief to a vehicle in Tofield. Unknown suspects entered a vehicle and damaged the ignition. Suspects were unsuccessful in stealing the vehicle.

A concerned citizen in Tofield reported a suspicious vehicle parked on the street without a license plate. RCMP at-

tended and confirmed the vehicle was not stolen. RCMP exercised discretion and the owner was instructed to park the vehicle in their driveway as it was not registered.

During the night of Feb. 25 a suspicious vehicle was reported parked in front of a business in Tofield. A patrol was made and RCMP determined the driver was fine and was only using the complimentary wifi.

Shortly after midnight on Feb. 26, CN Rail notified RCMP of a malfunctioning railway crossing in Holden that could be a potential traffic hazard.

Around midday on Feb. 26, a dog owner in Tofield reported that their dog had a bone in their yard. The complainant was worried someone was trying to feed their dog without

their knowledge. The dog was fine.

On the afternoon of Feb. 26, a resident from Ryley reported the window in their truck had been smashed while they were at work and several items were stolen from inside. Investigation is still ongoing.

On the morning of Feb. 27, RCMP were dispatched to a complaint of a truck that had hit a tree outside the Town of Tofield office. RCMP attended, located the driver and began an impaired

driving investigation.

The driver was arrested and transported to the detachment where he provided breath samples over 2.5 times the legal limit. The truck was impounded for three days and the driver was released on an Appearance Notice.

Midday on February 27, RCMP were dispatched to a complaint of a youth threatening another youth with a knife.

No injuries were sus-

younger. But in the shower it doesn’t matter if volume overruns quality.

I’m better at simultaneously chewing gum and patting my head (or rubbing my belly), but only if I do it slowly. Fortunately, speed isn’t part of that challenge. Hey, I just did it! That calls for my happy dance. I break that out whenever I get the chance. Reminds me that I’ve still got it. Applause please.

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Page 6 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Keep the conversation going!

Facebook.com/TofieldMercury Twitter.com/TofieldMercury

Opinion

Email us your letter to the editor: news.tofield@gmail.com

Independent schools may be the answer

EDITORIAL Kerry Anderson Tofield Mercury Publisher

The Battle River School Division (BRSD) is looking to shut down schools in Hardisty, Round Hill, and Holden to save money, as the viability of public schools seems dependent solely on enrollment in this day and age.

Just last year, Elk Island Public Schools shut down the Andrew High School, leaving the older students with long bus rides, and to arrive as strangers at new schools in Vegreville or Lamont.

It’s a story told in rural Alberta, over and over again.

But should it be?

I guess that depends if our educational system is considered an essential service like health care, policing, or emergency rescue personnel.

Certainly in a society with the wealth we enjoy, there is give

and take so that no matter where you live there is an entitlement to essential services.

In some places, massive revenues can be enjoyed, while in others sometimes losses.

It averages out. That’s what we do in a society, and we do it because of compassion.

Closing schools doesn’t mean children aren’t still provided with their education.

They are. In fact, the children and teachers are sent to larger schools, usually with better facilities and opportunities.

But the move isn’t all for the children’s betterment. If it were, would we have public meetings filled with angry parents and community leaders trying to change the mind of school boards?

There doesn’t seem to be the same compassion as in other essential services when the school board bean-counters decide to board up rural schools. In that sense it isn’t treated essential at all.

Rural schools are public gathering places. They’re where parents go to cheer on

Published Wednesday of each week by: The Tofield Mercury 5312 - 50 Street P.O. Box 150, Tofield, AB T0B 4J0 Ph: (780) 662-4046 Fax: (780) 662-3735 news.tofield@gmail.com

their children playing sports. It’s the first place where people develop a sense of pride in their rural community.

Rural schools are where teachers and parents know one another. They are places where parents recognize other parents’ children, and watch out for them. Quiet, shy, unassuming children don’t get lost and engulfed in the mass of student bodies in rural schools.

Rural schools are where friends are

made, sometimes lifelong friends. In rural schools, often the same children have been clinging to one another for friendship and support since the days when they had to get on their tiptoes to take a drink from the water fountain.

Suddenly separating these children from the tight bond and convenience of their local rural schools, and subjecting them to sometimes a couple of hours a day riding the yellow shaker seems

contrary to the productive routines we otherwise implore upon children.

Most people realize that when a school board has announced possible closures and have set up public meetings, it is just to appease the critics.

They have no intention to reverse their course of action.

Ultimately, independent schooling might be the best direction for rurals as public schools continue to centralize to larger cities.

In BC, a third of independent schools are located rurally. In Ontario, almost half of independent schools have less than 50 students and 75 per cent have less than 150.

In Alberta, charter schools, which operate independently of local school districts receive the same funding on a per-student-basis that is granted to local public schools.

Is it the answer? Not sure. Are small rural schools essential?

Darn tootin’.

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Print Subscription $33.50 Pick-up Subscription $24.94 Online Subscription $16.75 * Prices do not include GST *

Kerry Anderson

Moush John

Lisa Kuflay

Sarah McLaughlin

Joanne Suchy

Michelle Anderson

Publisher

Managing Editor

Office Manager/ Composition/Sales

Front Office/ Composition/Sales

Front Office/ Distribution

Administration

*Advertisements designed, set, and produced by The Tofield Mercury, as well as original photographs, articles and columns, editorial content, and other printed materials are protected by copyright and may not be used or reproduced without the expressed and signed written consent of The Tofield Mercury. In addition, we reserve the right to edit, delay, and/or refuse any and all material submitted to us without notice. Submitted Letters to the Editor and Opinion columns reflect the exclusive thoughts and opinions of the article’s author, and do not represent those of this publication, nor its publisher and staff.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Page 7

RCMP Continued from Page 5 tained. Matter is still under investigation.

Also on the afternoon Feb. 27, a resident of Tofield advised that someone had been ringing their doorbell late at night the past two nights.

The complainant was instructed to ensure they call RCMP as soon as it happens to assist RCMP with locating the subject.

On the night of Feb. 27, a resident of rural Beaver County called RCMP regarding ongoing issues with their divorce proceedings and child custody. No criminal offence had occurred and the complainant was instructed to enlist the aide of a divorce/family lawyer as RCMP do not determine the division of property or child custody orders.

On the morning of Feb. 28, Tofield RCMP assisted Viking RCMP and Killam RCMP with a call of a break-and-enter in progress at a property southeast of Holden.

RCMP were able to intercept one of the vehicles involved; two males and a female were taken into custody and held for a hearing. None of these suspects were local to Beaver County. Later that evening pending further investigation the other vehicle involved was located. A third male was

Cannabis store

located and arrested at his residence northeast of Holden. RCMP executed a warrant on the residence and were able to take the male into custody without issue.

RCMP would like to remind the public to make sure they report any suspicious activity as criminals are active anytime and anywhere. These reports are very helpful with the apprehension of prolific property offenders and ensuring the safety of our communities.

Midday on Feb. 28, Tofield RCMP received a complaint of a break-and enter, which occurred sometime in the past month. Nothing was stolen and it was reported for information purposes.

During the night on Feb. 28, Tofield RCMP were dispatched to the Tofield Hospital to assist with securing a violent patient. The patient was secured and eventually calmed down once they received their proper medication.

On the night of Feb. 29, RCMP were dispatched to a rural property near Holden. The complainant was reporting several people on their property.

Patrol made and there were no indications that anyone had been on the property.

Continued from Page 2 Cannabis, which is now legal for all aged 18 and above can still have negative health effects if used, according to Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC).

AGLC stated that being informed and making lower-risk choices will help reduce the risk of harm from cannabis use.

• Delay using cannabis until later in life as the brain is still developing

until about age 25.

• Choose lower-risk products, such as those with low THC and avoid smoking it.

• Don’t use if you are pregnant, think you might be, or are planning to become pregnant.

There is no known safe amount of cannabis use during pregnancy.

• Combining cannabis with tobacco or alcohol can increase the risks.

Use with caution.

• Limit and reduce your

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use of cannabis.

• Don’t use if you or your family has a history of psychosis, substance use disorders or other mental health problems.

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Page 8 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Ryley Rebels Jr. Boys win first ever BRSJHAA, finish season with a perfect 20-0 record Moush John Tofield Mercury

The Ryley Rebels Jr. Boys Basketball finished off a magical season on

the weekend by capturing the school’s first ever Battle River Schools Junior High Athletics Association (BRSJHAA) Championship in a team

sport.

According to Ryley School Athletic Director Brent Anderson, the Rebels went into the Championships 17-0 hav-

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Cocktails 5:00 pm • Dinner 6:00 pm • Presentations 7:15 pm Tickets $25 each Limited tickets available at the Agricultural Services Office 4728-41 Street, Camrose

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Seen here is the Ryley Rebels Jr. Basketball team with Coach John Blades. BACK ROW: From left, Coach John Blades, Damien MacLeod, Colby Anderson, Christian Pruden, Quinten Albrecht, Brodie Ochitwa, Lane Baraniuk, and Logan Janzen.

FRONT ROW: Preston Baraniuk, Brady Suchy, Ethan Vanstone, and Zane Gunderson. SUBMITTED PHOTO ing won the Ryley TipOff, Ryley/Tofield Midseason Shootout, and Daysland Invitational tournaments while going 8-0 in league play.

To start off the championships, the Rebels defeated the Tofield Titans 99-40 with Colby Anderson leading the way with 54 points while Damien MacLeod had 22 points and Christian Pruden 17 points.

“Both regional semi-finals featured a scene

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from the famous basketball movie Hoosiers where in the movie Hickory, one of the smallest high schools in Indiana wins the state championship over South Bend, one of Indiana’s largest schools,” Anderson said. “This was recreated as the Rebels, which is the third smallest junior high in the region faced Ecole Camrose Composite, who is comprised only of Grade 9 students, yet has four times the students of Ryley. The visiting Trojans, who lost earlier in the season to the Rebels 64-62 and 67-31, came out on fire leading 11-4 early on.”

The Rebels stayed close and in the third quarter took the lead for good in the third after Rebels Coach John Blades took a timeout and changed defences.

“From there the Rebels continued to gain momentum leading by as much as 12 points before the Trojans mounted a late comeback in the fourth that fell short when the Rebels won 6561,” Anderson explained.

“The Rebels were again led by Colby Anderson who finished with 44 points, while MacLeod had 12 points and Quinten Albrecht finished with 6.”

In the final Ryley played Round Hill, and

gained an early 4-0 lead before Round Hill scored the next 9 points giving them a 9-4 lead.

The first half was back and forth with the Rebels leading 21-20 after the first quarter and 44-37 at half.

The Rebels started to pull away in the third with some strong play from Anderson, MacLeod and Pruden giving them a 65-48 lead after three quarters.

“Our opponent Round Hill mounted a huge comeback in the fourth behind the strong play of Owen Rasmuson who scored 24 points alone in the fourth quarter finishing the game with 56 points, but the Rebels were able to hold off the late rally winning the game and the regional championship 87-79 and ending with a perfect 200 record on the season,” Anderson stated.

Top scorers for the Rebels were Anderson with 47 points, MacLeod 18 points and Pruden with 17 points.

Tomaszewski also chipped in 18 points for Round Hill. Other members of the history making team are Grade 9 Brodie Ochitwa, Grade 8 Lane Baraniuk, Grade 7’s Logan Janzen, Brady Suchy, and Zane Gunderson along with Grade 6’s Preston Baraniuk and Ethan Vanstone.

Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County

Chronicle The Beaver County

A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County Wednesday, March 4, 2020, Volume 13, Issue 10

Bruce, Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking

Order Printing LOCALLY! • Business Cards • Raffle Tickets • Forms • Envelopes Tofield Mercury & Weekly Review

Building bumblebee houses to foster rural sustainability Patricia Harcourt A rural sustainability group hosted a bumble bee house building workshop that is part of a movement to help the bee population and its work of pollination so vital to the planet.

About 30 people attended the workshop at the Golden Valley Lutheran Church in Viking last Saturday, which was sponsored by the Rural Outreach and Agricultural Renaissance Society, or ROARS. "ROARS promotes a holistic approach to community development and agriculture," explained member Vern Hafso. "We do that through education, have a section of books in the library, and put on events."

In the past, the group has attempted to "re-learn community" through, for example, the hosting of 'eco-ag' summits in conjunction with Augustana College in Camrose. ROARS has also hosted food fairs where the nutritional value of foods were tested.

"This is just another workshop to teach people about the environment and the role of pollinators," he said, and learning to do things in a way that "keeps things in a natural balance."

At the bee house building workshop, 21 of the houses were constructed under the watchful eye of Rebekkah Adams. Adams is part of AWES, the Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society in Edmonton.

She spoke on the lives and needs of bumblebees and other pollinators and the how building a bumblebee house can support native bumblebee populations.

"The habitat for bees is getting less and less," said Hafso. "The houses give (queen bees) a place to have their nests, to lay eggs and hatch new bees. They are not honey bees, they are bumblebees, and are an important part of the pollination system."

But bumblebees in rural areas are facing habitat problems not found in the urban environment.

A 2018 study (at rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org) found that there were lower bumblebee colony reproduction in agricultural areas compared to urban environments.

"Here we show that urban land use is linked to long term colony reproductive output in a key pollinator," stated

the study, which placed wild bumblebees in different locations ranging from inner city urban to rural farmland and monitored the production of offspring in the entire colony cycle."

The study's conclusion was that reproductive success was better in urbanized areas, "supporting the theory that urban areas provide a refuge for pollinator populations in an otherwise barren agricultural landscape." (Ash E. Samuelson, Richard J. Gill, Mark J.F. Brown and Ellouise Leadbeater, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, U.K.) Each spring in Alberta, millions of queen bumblebees wake up from hibernation and start looking for a place to lay eggs at a nesting site.

They will look for piles or rock or deadfall to nest, in the hollows of trees, thick bunches of grass, or abandoned rodent burrows. But such natural sites are diminishing over time.

To compensate, the bumblebee houses are exactly what is required for their needs, which is a home that is dry and protected from the elements. The houses must also be near good sources of food.

Those making the houses had to bring their own drill and screwdriver to the workshop. The tiny houses should be installed in early spring, usually April right after snowmelt but before leaves appear and early flowering species (such as willow) begin blooming.

The installation should be done near plentiful sources of food for the queens. That includes pollen and nectar from diverse flowering trees, shrubs and forms. To be avoided are sites near anthills or places where the houses could be sprayed with pesticides or vandalized.

Apparently, certain species of bumblebees prefer to nest above ground in places like the hollows of trees. Other species prefer below ground in rodent burrows or under piles of brush, and are more common in open areas like pasture or cropland.

Below ground nests need to have a six inch piece of plastic pipe inserted into the entrance hole, and placed into the aside of a well drained slope so rainwater doesn't intrude.

Above ground, the bumblebee houses can be strapped to a thick tree or

MICHAEL OMMEN PHOTO

post using plastic or metal strapping, or simply set on the ground. The north side of trees or posts is considered the best so the house doesn't get direct exposure to sunlight.

Once installed, the wait begins to see if a queen bee will inhabit the house.

Only one in four bumblebee houses are colonized even with ample food sources nearby. So it's a good idea to build several houses and see which one is chosen.

Cotton is placed inside the house, and a queen bee will crawl in and fluff it up in preparation for creating wax cells. She will then lay her eggs and provide the eggs with nectar and pollen.

The eggs will hatch into "worker daughters" that will help provide food and guard the nest. The colony can then expand to between 50 and 400 bees depending on the species and habitat quality.

In mid-summer, the queen lays eggs that hatch into males and new queens.

They both fly away to mate with other bees from different nests. The nest will eventually be abandoned by midOctober and all the bees will die off except the newly mated queens. These queens are the next generation to hibernate over winter in leaf litter or in the soil and begin the cycle again the following spring.

Hafso says that in the spring, the bees need the species of flowers that bloom early so they can get nourishment and go on to find their habitat, lay their eggs and thrive in a new colony. At his own rural location north-

east of Viking, the flowers include things like clover, alfalfa, and the popular flowering plum trees.

"The plum trees are full of bees in the spring," he said.

Hafso also extolled the virtues of the lowly dandelion, considered a weed by many, but a great source of nectar for bees. "The dandelion is completely usable as a very health food source," he said.

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, March 4, 2020

Ag Safety Week runs March 15-21 This March, the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) is encouraging all Canadians to celebrate "Safe and Strong Farms."

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) is an annual public campaign focusing on the importance of safe agriculture. "Safe and Strong Farms: Grow an AgSafe Canada," is the second year of a three-year campaign celebrating farm safety across Canada. The aim of the campaign is to empower farmers, farm families and farming communities to build (2019), grow (2020), and lead (2021) the agricultural industry in safety and sustainability.

In 2020 organizers are focusing on supporting farmers, farm families and farming communities through resources, safety advice articles, an AgSafe Ribbon campaign and more. “We recognize that this past year was a difficult one for many farmers,� says Marcel Hacault, CASA’s Executive Director. “That’s why we’ve focused resources on supporting wellness, resilience and safety on the farm.�

CASW 2020 also marks the fourth year of the AgSafe Ribbon campaign.

The AgSafe Ribbon campaign celebrates Safe and Strong Farms and raises awareness about the importance of farm safety.

Farm Credit Canada is the presenting sponsor of CASW and longtime supporter of other farm safety programs, including the

Back to Ag Program that supports the cost of adaptive technology for farmers that have experienced a traumatic injury. “At FCC, we understand that people are the most precious asset in any operation and promoting safety to prevent accidents is the best investment we can make in supporting farm operators and their families,� said Sophie Perreault, executive vice-president and chief operating officer at FCC. “We also know that accidents happen, so the Back to Ag Program is another way FCC can help injured farmers fulfill their dreams and return to the important work they’re doing as soon as possible.�

For more details on Canadian Agricultural Safety Week visit www.agsafetyweek.ca.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week takes place every year during the third week of March. For more information about CASW, media kits or resources, please visit agsafetyweek.ca.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) is an annual campaign held the third week of March of each year. In 2020, "Safe and Strong Farms: Grow an AgSafe Canada", takes place March 15 to 21. CASW is presented by Farm Credit Canada.

For more information visit agsafetyweek.ca. In 2020, CASW sponsors include long-time corporate sponsor Farm Credit Canada, as well as CN.

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Beaver County Chronicle, March 4, 2020 - 3

Holden 4-H holds successful pancake supper

Services

Hubert & Margaret Graham Parts, Sales & Service Bus: 780-663-3759 Res: 780-662-2384 Fax: 780-663-3799

ryalta@digitalweb.net 5108 - 50th St. Ryley, AB., T0B 4J0

Real Estate

Zane Gunderson & Kate Albrecht Club Reporters

The Holden 4-H Beef Club members held their Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper at the Holden Community Hall on February 25. The members and their parents

prepared pancakes, sausages, eggs, and fruit for the community.

The community supported our club extremely well.

Lucy Upham won the 50/50 and kindly donated her winnings back to the club. Lucy is a previous member of the

Holden 4-H Beef Club.

In addition to the wonderful attendance, the club is grateful to the many sponsors that helped make the event so successful, including Crop Management Network - Holden, P&H Grain-Viking, Tofield Packers, Holden and

Notice of Adjourned Public Hearing NOTICE OF ADJOURNED PUBLIC HEARING March 20, 2020, 10:30 a.m.

Beaver County Service Centre in Ryley Beaver County is considering the following Road Closure: Plan 146 E.T in NW 30-48-14-W4 (0.808 ac) In the Hamlet of Bruce

A Public Hearing is being held at 10:30 am on Friday, March 20, 2020, at the Beaver County Service Centre to hear objections or comments regarding this road closure.

Written submissions may be provided to Beaver County Council during the public hearing.

The information you provide may be made public, subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Bob Beck, Chief Administrative Officer Beaver County Box 140 Ryley, AB T0B 4A0 For questions, please contact the County Development Officer Kim Vana, at kvana@beaver.ab.ca

Bruce Fire Departments, Alcatraz Eggs, and Food With Flair-Viking.

All helped to purchase and provide the groceries.

We are also grateful to all who attended and everyone who made donations. Our community is amazing.

L /SEL BUYrma ti on i nfo dvi ce ! &a

780-983-3694 Office: 780-464-4100

Gerry Footz REALTOR

Website: www.gerryfootz.com

Community Events Meet with the RCMP Monday March 9th 7pm Holden Seniors Centre 4914 50St, Holden Come meet with the local members of the Tofield RCMP detachment, & Beaverhill Rural Crime Watch.

Demo on trace pens & question & answer period.

Farm Succession Planning Service provided by Turning Point Law Wills, Estates, Trusts, Professional Responsibility Saturday, March 14th Beaver County Service Centre (5120 50St, Ryley AB) 10am -12pm $15/person Registration & payment deadline March 6, 12pm (cash or cheque only) Call CALP @ (780)663-3730 email: calp@beaver.ab.ca

The Paragon Theatre Presents Saturday, March 14th Playing with Fire 3pm Stuber 7pm Admission: $7, $3u12 Tofield and area Health Services Foundation First Annual Community Helping Hearts Dinner Guests of Honor Lionel and Susie Williams Saturday, March 21st Ryley Community Centre Advance Tickets available Beaverhill Rural Crime Watch AGM Monday, March 23rd 7pm Ryley Legion Hall 5121 50St, Ryley Both Viking & Tofield RCMP Detachments presenting

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, March 4, 2020

Beaver County Service Centre 5120 - 50 Street Box 140 Ryley, Alberta T0B 4A0 Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Phone: (780) 663-3730 Fax: (780) 663-3602 Toll Free: 1-866-663-1333 www.beaver.ab.ca Email: administration@beaver.ab.ca

Notice of Public Hearing

Online Reservation System

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Campground Online Reservation System

ADOPTION OF THE BEAVER COUNTY AND STRATHCONA COUNTY INTERMUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Beaver County is moving to an online reservation system beginning Monday, March 2nd, 2020, through Camp Reservations Canada, for both Black Nugget Lake Park and Camp Lake Park Campgrounds.

BEAVER COUNTY BYLAW 20 -1080 Beaver County and Strathcona County wish to adopt an Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP) to address future land use, transportation and infrastructure, environment, economic and social development, and responsible intermunicipal coordination. This collaboration will ensure that land use decisions within the IDP area are thoughtfully considered and that potential land use conflicts are minimized, through the work of communication and coordination between the Counties. The draft IDP has been developed using the existing policy areas of both municipalities’ Municipal Development Plans (MDPs), and as a result the proposed IDP will not affect existing land use zoning.

You must have an email address and a credit card in order to make an online reservation.

To book online go to www.campreservations.ca.

You will still be able to make reservations by telephone or in person beginning Friday, May 1st for the 2020 camping season.

You must have an email address and a credit card.

Black Nugget Lake Park - (78o) 663-2421 Camp Lake Park - (780) 336-3414 Camp Lake Park closes Tuesday, September 15th, 2020.

Black Nugget Lake Park closes Monday, October 12th, 2020.

Request for Proposal 2020 Contracted Landflood Control Services Beaver County is now accepting proposals for Contracted Landflood Control Services to fulfill a commitment required to address current beaver removal and Landflood control needs on municipal lands and public infrastructure within the County for the 2020 season.

Proposals clearly marked “To Provide Landflood Control Services for the 2020 Season” shall be forwarded to: Aimee Boese, Agricultural Fieldman Beaver County Box 140, Ryley, AB T0B 4A0 (780) 663-3730 aboese@beaver.ab.ca Before 12:00:00 P.M. on Friday the 6th day of March 2020.

Proposal Packages are available on request at the Beaver County Service Centre OR on the Beaver County website at https://www.beaver.ab.ca/residents/proposals-quotes

A Public Hearing has been scheduled by Beaver County for Council to consider arguments for and against the proposed bylaw to adopt the new IDP. The public hearing will be held on Friday, March 20, 2020, at 11:00 am, at the Beaver County Service Centre in Ryley. You are invited to attend the public hearing to express your views.

A copy of the proposed bylaw and IDP are available at the Beaver County Service Centre in Ryley during regular business hours or on-line at www.beaver.ab.ca.

Written submissions may be provided to Beaver County Council during the public hearing. Alternatively, written comments may also be submitted prior to the public hearing to Kim Vana, Development Officer, at the Beaver County Service Centre or by e-mail on or before 4:30 pm, March 13, 2020.

If you submit comments regarding the bylaw in writing, the information you provide may be made public, subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Bob Beck, Chief Administrative Officer Beaver County Box 140, Ryley, AB T0B 4A0 For questions, please contact the County Development Officer Kim Vana, at kvana@beaver.ab.ca .

Beaver County Land Leases Beaver County is considering the lease of the following parcels of land: 1. Plan 762 0125; Block 1; Lot R5 in NE 26-50-20-W4 (28.34 ac).

2. Plan 752 0263, Lot R3 in SE 31-51-19-W4 (13.08 ac) 3. Plan 1670 TR, Lot R1 in SE 16-50-20-W4 (13.35 ac).

4. Plan 762 1641, Block 1, Lot R1 in SE 9-50-20-W4 (15.37 ac) 5. Plan 062 2660, Block 2, Lot 6 in NE 35-47-13-W4 (32 ac) 6. East Half of NE 10-46-11-W4 (101.40 ac) More information regarding these properties can be found on the County’s website at www.beaver.ab.ca.

A bid form is available at the Beaver County Service Centre, 5120 – 50 Street, Ryley, or on the County’s website at www.beaver.ab.ca.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Page 9

BRSD presentations Continued from Page 3 out that BRSD has said to all that: “We’ve tried to work with communities.”

He rebutted that statement, saying: “I’m sorry, but what does working with communities look like? Ryley doesn’t feel like the BRSD has worked with our community. I’ve spoken with Holden, they say they don’t feel it.

“I heard at the Round Hill public engagement, they stated outright that BRSD has not listened to them over the past years.

“So I have to ask the question, what does working with communities look like?

“I will say this, that what I’ve seen today, is nodding heads. Up until now I’ve been relatively unimpressed, you’ve got a hard job, and up until now you’ve been focused on those finances, I think.

“There’s been new ideas on the table, and I’m glad to see that you’ve been nodding your heads like you’re thinking maybe there is something, because again, my goal today is to add enough doubt in your mind that a, you’ll think it’s the wrong decision, or at least b, if it’s the right decision, we need time to investigate that and we can’t do it in three weeks.”

He said that board focus on small school challenges should be balanced equally by small school advantages.

“I felt it was obvious BRSD is saying that closing small schools is the only smart choice. It sounds like it is justifying a decision that had already been made.”

Hamilton-Brown suggested that solutions can be found between Round Hill, Ryley, and Holden other than a direct line to Camrose.

He argued that centralization isn’t always the answer, and families get further away from schools, “They are going to choose alternate schools,” he warned, “and alternate school op-

tions.

“You are affecting the economics of these communities,” he told the board, “and again, there’s a much bigger picture than financial. There are unexpected consequences, social and economic effects.”

Hamilton-Brown closed by telling the board: “In conclusion, I want to say that there are only two possibilities.

The board is responsible to convince the constituents; if all these people here are disagreeing with you, then it’s a wrong decision, or they don’t understand; and if it’s that they don’t understand, I don’t believe you should make the decision until you’ve made us all understand.

“I don’t think you can absorb that information, as well as that given today, in three weeks. In my mind you must defer this decision.”

In the next presentation, both the Ryley and Holden School Councils combined their 15minute time slots into a half-hour presentation, given by Linda Hunt from Holden, with Carrie Hrabec from Ryley School Council in support.

Hunt told the board members, “We want to engage in constructive dialogue and come to a conclusion that’s good for us as well as good for the division. We want a long-term strategic decision to be made, not a short-term ‘let’s just solve the problem and go on.’

“We realize that a tough decision has to be made... but we assumed that closing schools would not be the first option; we assumed closing schools would be something that you would consider after having extensive engagements with our municipalities, with our communities, and listening to the ideas that come out of those engagements, so when it comes to us as the first option, we are caught off guard.”

Hunt said she knows

the schools were made aware of concerns about low enrollment, “but we assumed that we would have an opportunity to work with the division, as in the past. So it never occurred to us that closing the Holden School was on the table at all.

“It was quite a shock to the school community, quite a shock to the teachers, that this was on the table at all.

“So our reaction is probably in line with all the other communities, and after hearing all the presentations [from Round Hill and Hardisty] it’s pretty clear how we are feeling about this and how it feels like it’s just too fast for us to get behind the decision that’s being made.”

She acknowledged that the board is facing difficulties. “I’m really glad that we are on this side of the table, and not over there,” she said, motioning towards the board members.

Hunt and Hrabec’s presentation focussed on their discussions with the greater community.

“One of the issues that keeps coming up is the sense of not being able to engage with BRSD. Continued on Page 16

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Page 10 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

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Commercial • Farm • Auto Home • Recreational• Hail • Tofield • Holden

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Todd Ritchie Financial Advisor Ritchie Agencies Insurance Ltd 5036 53 Ave | Tofield 780-662-3833 www.cooperators.ca/Ritchie-Agencies

Home Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel

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Construction Devin Van Sickle 587-322-2141 • Skid Steer Services • Snow removal • Trenching • Mulching

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Health & Beauty P RIMARY C ONNECTIONS M ASSAGE T HERAPY

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Meat Packers 5020 - 50 Ave., Tofield, AB HOURS:

Registered Massage Therapy “Masseuse Caboose” 5024-53 Ave.

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662-4498 Rhona Lawson R.M.T/M.T.A.A.

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SLAUGHTER DAY IS EVERY WEDNESDAY NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION ACREAGE ANDand TOWN DEVELOPMENT Acreage TownRESIDENTIAL Residential Development

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Heavy Duty Mechanic

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780-686-6344 Agriculture~Construction~Tractor/Trailer

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Page 11

Business & Professional Directory Small Ads - $50/month

Medium Ads - $80/month

Plumbing & Heating

Real Estate

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Large Ads - $160/month

Veterinary Clinic

Kevin Smook REALTOR ®

780-662-4623 Celebrating 20 years of serving our community! www.home-time.net

RED’S

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Roofing

Garnet Malin - Tofield, AB

John Daoust Shingle Co.

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Easy Calving Angus Hybrid Bulls for Heifers Charlton Cattle Co has more than 40 years’ experience raising only easy calving bulls for first calf heifers.

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Page 12 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

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__________________ CARD CARD OF OF THANKS THANKS

__________________ FOR FOR SALE SALE

___________________ HAY SALE HAY FOR FOR SALE

__________________ SERVICES SERVICES

__________________ SERVICES SERVICES

__________________ SERVICES SERVICES

The family of Graham Wilkie would like to thank everyone for their love and support as we grieve the loss of our son, father, brother, and friend.

Thank you to the staff at the Calgary Foothills Hospital for their care for Graham in the final days of his life. We give thanks to the Viking Funeral Home, especially RoseMae Kjelland, for her professionalism and guidance during our planning and preparation for the Celebration of Life.

Thanks to Pastor Alvin for his visits, reading the eulogy, and performing the service.

Thanks to George Lidget from ATCO for his kind words and tribute to Graham and all the members of the ATCO family for attending the service.

Thank you to Mark and Cheryl Hafso for attending to the many details prior to the service.

Last but not least, thanks to everyone that shared the Celebration of Life with us.

Flowers, texts, phone calls, food, and memorial donations made in Graham’s memory were greatly appreciated.

20' SeaCan near Tofield. Like new, must sell. Call Jim @ 780554-5591.

Asking $2,750 O.B.O.

Hay for sale.

ALF/TM/BR/CW mix.

Shedded small square bales $7, round bales $60. Minimal rain.

Phone late evenings 780-942-4107

Marvel Construction Ltd. •New Construction • Renovations • Repairs FREE ESTIMATES! Ramlal (Steve) Arjoon Home Improvement Specialist 780-298-1955 steve.arjoon @yahoo.com Serving Viking & Beaver County __________________ Marvel Construction Ltd. Commercial and Residental Cleaning Ramlal (Steve) Arjoon 780-298-1955 steve.arjoon @yahoo.com Serving Viking & Beaver County __________________ Carpet and upholstery cleaning - residential and commercial.

Truck mount unit, sewer back-up, and flood cleaning. Auto and RV cleaning.

Call Glenn and Cindi Poyser, Fancy Shine Auto and Carpet Care at (780) 384-3087

Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work.

Call 780-662-0146 or 780-232-3097.

TM33tfnc __________________ 35+ years experience Drywall Taper for hire. Big jobs or small.

Living in Killam but willing to travel. Hand taper by trade but have experience with boxes, roller/flusher, taping tube. No bazooka experience.

Have own tools (10-12" boxes, pump, angle box, roller, flusher, hand tools, etc.)

Also do ceiling texture.

Non-drinker/partier, just want to get the work done.

Willing to work with existing building or taping crew.

Contact me if interested. 780-385-2106 / 780385-1251.

Painting Quality Residential and Commercial Painting Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749 or 780-688-3564 tfnc __________________ WHY GO OUT OF TOWN OR OUT OF COUNTY FOR YOUR PRINTING? ORDER YOUR PRINTING LOCALLY FROM YOUR LOCAL PAPER!

11c __________________ FOR RENT RENT FOR Townhouse for rent in Viking. $900/month plus utilities. Contact 780-385-5287.

51tfnc __________________ FARMLAND FARMLAND FOR RENT RENT FOR Crop land for rent.

West of Andrew, AB. Call for details.

780-603-7036 LL09/10p

TM11/12p __________________ •Heavy Duty 6ft Buhler Snow Blower with 3point hitch and hydraulic shutt •Restored 1942 Farmal MD Tractor / 1937 McCormick Deering W30 / 1958 Minneapolis Moline 5 Star with new back tires - runs good •Restorable Farmal 460 / John Deere 60 / John Deere AR Call for more info 780-336-3512 780-385-8814 ___________________ HELP HELP WANTED WANTED LAMONT HEALTH CARE CENTRE Invites applications for the following positions: •FOOD SERVICES WORKERS 0.39 FTE & Casuals.

Please direct resume to: Marilyn Thomas Food Services Supervisor Lamont Health Care Centre PO Box 479 5216 – 53rd Street LAMONT, AB T0B 2R0 or FAX: 780-895-7305 11/12p ___________________ HAYFOR FOR SALE HAY SALE __________________

HAY FOR

SALE

Big Round Alfalfa/ TimothyHay Bales.

Net wrapped,approx.

1200 lbs., good quality, $65.00/bale.

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White, tan, red, and black.

Scattered Spruce Salers 780-768-2284 780-208-0199 (cell) 11/23c __________________ SEEDFOR FOR SALE SEED SALE Certified seed for sale Barley: Amisk. Oats: AC Morgan, O R E 3 5 4 2 M , Haymaker.

Brett Young: all canola & forage varieties. Haralie Seed Farms 780-6622617 or 780-405-8089.

Tofield Alta.

TM09tfn __________________ LOOKING FOR LOOKING FOR EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT Class 1 Driver with clean abstract. Lives in Viking area. Looking for employment in the Viking, Killam, or Vegreville area. Call 780-603-6183.

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CLASSIFIED AD RATES $10.75 first 25 words 39¢ each additional word PICTURE BOLD $10.00 $5.00 WEEKLY REVIEW Ph. 780-336-3422 Email: vikingreview @gmail.com

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Page 13

Remember When

PROVINCIAL BRONZE TITLE: The Ryley High School girls basketball team are pictured from left to right, standing, Cara Leclaire, Jacqui Dueck, Kearstin Solberg, Kim Yachimec, Brandy Hejnar, Coach Floyd Taylor, Janene Taylor, Sara Mulder, Krystal Williams, Randida Tollefson and Renae Bugge. This image appeared in The Tofield Mercury dated April 11, 2000.

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Blanket Alberta Ads take approximately 10 days to process

COLOUR THIS PICTURE

These blanket classified ads are produced through a joint agreement by The Community Press, Viking Weekly Review, Lamont Leader, Tofield Mercury and Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association (AWNA). These ads appear in all AWNA member papers (120 papers) for the cost of $269.00 (+gst) for the first 25 words, $8.00 per word over 25. To place a blanket classified, call a CARIBOU PUBLISHING representative at 780-385-6693 or email ads@thecommunitypress.com.

_______________________ AUCTIONS AUCTIONS

_______________________ COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS

_______________________ FOR SALE SALE FOR

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UPCOMING MEIER GUN AUCTION. Saturday, March 7 10AM 4740-57 St Wetaskiwin.

Selling Handguns, rifles, shotguns, hunting and sporting equipment. Free pick up Edmonton surrounding area to consign. Call 780-4401860. _______________________ BUSINESS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES

SAVE THE DATE!!! 100 Years of Friends, Family and Fellowship.

Eckville Homecoming 2021. July 1 4, 2021. Stay tuned for more details. _______________________ EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES

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BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach 97 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-2826903 Ext 200; www.awna.com. _______________________ COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS FIREARMS WANTED FOR APRIL 18th, 2020 Live & Online Auction: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual items.

Contact Paul, Switzer's Auction: Toll-Free 1-800694-2609, sales@switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com.

HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola.

Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. "On Farm Pickup" Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252.

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Starting at $269+gst (based on 25 words or less). Call this newspaper NOW for details or call 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228.

ANSWERS

Page 14 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Sports

Keep the conversation going!

Facebook.com/TofieldMercury Twitter.com/TofieldMercury

Email us your sport roundups and scores news.tofield@gmail.com

Tofield Tier 6 Atoms score double shutouts TOFIELD MINOR HOCKEY REPORT

Kerry Anderson Tofield Mercury

These are some of the results from the Northern Alberta Interlock Minor Hockey League games held recently.

Tofield Tier 3 Atoms played two playoff games over the weekend against Ponoka. On Friday on the road, Tofield downed the home team 4-2. Down 2-0 midway

through the game, Tofield came back with four straight goals to gain victory. Baylee Roberts scored two goals, while Hudson Lungal (1g 1a) and Declan Girard also scored. Everett Zilkie made 28 saves for the win. On Saturday, Tofield hosted Ponoka and again fell behind in the contest, this time 3-0 late in the middle period. Tofield got to within one goal at

8:30 of the third period but Ponoka extended the lead to 5-2 with under 5:00 remaining. Tofield scored with 2:06 remaining, then got to within a goal with 1:39 left. With only 48 seconds remaining in the game, Hudson Lungal tied the game a 55. That was Hudson’s second goal in a threepoint game.

Baylee Roberts and Mason Jeffrey both had a goal and

Employment Listings

Work! adsmercury@gmail.com

Employment Opportunity Are you a Housekeeping looking to make a difference in a Residential Care Site?

We are looking for a Housekeeping for Vegreville located Century Park Long-Term Residential Care site who will be responsible for the room cleaning services.

What your typical day will look like: • Provides housekeeping services in the resident care rooms and common areas in accordance with the established work routines.

• Completes terminal cleans of resident’s rooms.

• Ensures residents are provided with a secure living environment.

• Patrols the building and investigates building access violations in in accor dance with established schedules and work routines.

• Supports the facility Safety Program and monitors safety in the living and working environment, responds to and reports hazards, near misses, incidents, accidents and unsafe or faulty equipment.

• Follows Health authority laundry guidelines.

• Demonstrates knowledge and application of elder and staff safety.

• All safety rules and safe work procedures are adhered to at all times.

• Reports all hazards, incidents, near misses and workplace injuries to the manager immediately and in writing.

• Does not participate in unsafe situations (horseplay) and corrects any unsafe conditions if able.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

What we need from you: • Successful completion of secondary school or equivalent.

• Legally allowed to work in Canada.

• Building Service Worker Certificate, Institutional Aide Certificate and/or Basic Food Safe Certificate.

• Institutional cleaning experience.

• Ability to read and communicate effectively in English.

• Effective interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.

• Ability to organize work and work under strict time constraints.

What we will provide to you: • Competitive salary • Above average vacation entitlement • Opportunities for advancement and education funding • A great supportive team Apply to: centurypark@provita.ca

an assist. Cale Helfrich also scored, and Merek Fritz got two assists. Lane Dehid got the win in net.

Tofield Tier 6 Atoms won an 8-0 home playoff game against Leduc on Saturday, outshooting the visitors 44-7. Scoring for Tofield were; Jonas Teefy (2g 1a), Gabriel Thorson (2g), Karter Waldo (1g 1a), Gavin Lutz (1g 1a), Steven Cardinal (1g), Carson Kroeker (1g), Colton Munson (1a), Logan Kropp (1a), and Braydo Crawford (1a).

Austin Schmick got the shutout win in goal. On Sunday, Tofield shutout Leduc 4-0 at Tofield Arena. Gabriel Thorson got a hat trick. Other scorers were; Gavin Lutz (1g 1a), Colton Munson (2a), Steven Cardinal (1a), and Karter Waldo (1a).

Jonas Teefy made 15 saves for the shutout.

Tofield Tier 4 Peewees won a 9-6 home playoff game at Tofield Arena against Wabasca on Sunday. The seesaw game was tied 6-6 as the game wound down. With only

3:47 remaining in the game, Tofield’s Zachery McFadzean got the winner. Tofield scored two more goals before the game ended. Besides the winner, Zachery had a four point game (2g 2a).

Other scorers were; Kowyn Laschowski (2g

1a), Sam Stephen (1g 2a), Ethan Turnbull (2g), Parker Stewart-Cantin (1g), Cash Cross (1g), and Carter Olson (1a). Jacob Bigney got the win in goal.

Tofield Tier 5 Peewees Continued on Page 16

Tofield Tier 6 Atom Gabriel Thorson (#4) against Leduc 2 on Sunday, March 1. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

Do you have an agricultural story to share with the community?

Send it to the Tofield Mercury at adsmercury@gmail.com or call us at 780-662-4046

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Page 15

Keep the conversation going!

Facebook.com/TofieldMercury Twitter.com/TofieldMercury

Sports

Tofield Peewee Tier 4’s goalie Jacob Bigney (#31). MOUSH JOHN PHOTOS

Email us your sport roundups and scores news.tofield@gmail.com

Employment Listings

Work! adsmercury@gmail.com Employment Opportunity Are you a Cook looking to make a difference in a Residential Care Site?

Tofield Peewee Tier 4 Parker Stewart-Cantin (#17) against Wabasca.

We are looking for a Cook for Vegreville loctaed Century Park Long-Term Residential Care site who will be responsible for the food preparing services.

What your typical day will look like: • Prepare meals for residents and special events, and ensure dietary needs and standard dietary care are met • Prep work for the next day, and receive supplies as needed • The Cook must comply with all food preparation standards and health and safety requirements • Operate and clean food production equipment • Perform other related duties as assigned What we need from you: • Completion of recognized cooking program • Food Safe Level 1 Certification (Level 2 preferred) • Must have a working knowledge of HACCP • Must have current certification in WHMIS • Experience in Long-Term Care Facility and/or high volume food preparation • Experience in Health Care or Hospitality industry is required • Must be able to communicate in the English language • Able to follow both written and verbal instructions What we will provide to you: • Competitive salary • Above average vacation entitlement • Opportunities for advancement and education funding • A great supportive team Apply to: centurypark@provita.ca

Employment Opportunity Are you a Health Care Aide looking to make a difference in a Residential Care Site?

We are looking for a Health Care Aide for Vegreville located Century Park Long-Term Residential Care Site, who will be responsible for the care services.

What your typical day will look like: Work with residents/patient’s during regular day to day activities Personal care, nutrition, social and recreational activities Documents residents/patient’s changes in functional and cognitive behavior Lifts, transfers, porters and ambulates residents/patients using the proper equipment/technique as identified in the resident’s care plan and the policies and procedures Performs and records routine nursing procedures Assists with admissions, discharges and transfers of residents/patients Performs other related duties as assigned What we need from you: Strong communications skills in English Legally allowed to work in Canada Ability to pass a Ministry of Justice Criminal Record Check for working with vulnerable adults One year experience (preferred) Education Grade 12 Education Graduate with Health Care Aide/Nursing program including Dementia Care Program Certificates Registered and in good standing with Care Aide Registry Food Safe Level 1 Certificate First Aid and CPR “A” Certification

What we will provide you: Competitive salary Above average vacation entitlement Opportunities for advancement and education funding A great supportive team Apply at: centurypark@provita.ca

Page 16 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Tofield Minor Hockey Continued from Page 14 dropped a 9-4 playoff game in Westlock on Sunday.

Scoring the Tofield goals were; Jadyn Stewart-Cantin, Noah Peterson, Caleb Wenger, and Kyson Fitzner.

Assists went to; Ayden Bremner (2a), Koston McNabb, Jordynn Dee, and Scott Jardine. Tofield plays at Athabasca on Saturday.

Tofield Tier 3 Bantams won a 10-5 playoff game at Wabasca on Saturday.

Wabasca had a 4-2 lead with only 7:41 remaining

in the second period before Tofield scored the next eight goals within the next 12 minutes to put away the game. Seth Sideroff (3g 2a) and Christian Amirault (3g 1a) both recorded hat tricks for Tofield. Other scorers were; Brampton Jennings (1g 3a), Davin Codd (2g), Caleb Lampitt (1g 1a), Connolly Mozak (1a), and Joshua Swedberg (1a). Daniel Zander and Caden Beaulac shared the win in goal.

Tofield Tier 4 Midgets

won a 6-3 playoff game at home against Whitecourt on Friday.

Koyier Cameron (2g 1a), Daniel Romaniuk and James Wipf each scored twice for Tofield. Assists went to; Bryce Hunt (2a), Jesse Bueckert, Ethan Zemlak and Charlie Krahn.

Joshua Whitbread got the win in goal. On Saturday at Hinton, Tofield lost a 53 game. Carter Chomik (1g 1a), Bryce Hunt, and James Wipf scored for Tofield. Marshal Korpak picked up an assist.

Get all the local news, sports, and community events by subscribing to us! Call 780-662-4046

Tofield Tier 3 Atom Declan Girard (#2) against Ponoka opponent on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 29. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

BRSD presentations Continued from Page 9 “I looked at all the different ways that School Council has to engage, through surveys and stuff, and what we find is that it’s very scripted and narrow-focused, so sometimes as parents and those working in the community, we have a hard time expressing what we are trying to express through those engagements.”

She said that she likes the idea of the local division having autonomy over the schools, but added that in her experience she often doesn’t see engagements with BRSD actually follow through in a responsive kind of action. “It’s difficult for us to see the outcomes of our suggestions and engagement.” She understands, she said, the division needing to take a broader view, but said, “I think it’s time to reassess how we are communicating and work together; how the school councils, the trustees, and the division, because we are hearing from our communities a lot of disconnection and dissatisfaction.“ School Councils in both communities talked to parents who previously have pulled their children from the division:

“They said it was because they didn’t feel that BRSD would engage with them about the issues with their children.

“Here [in BRSD] they felt it is more about “policy, process, and finance.”

Hunt relayed stories about past issues in Ryley School where parents told them: “Information was shared with the Principal and Superintendent, and parents said it was frustrating that things took so long to change, and that so many families were lost in the interim.

“When we make administrative decisions that don’t quite fit the school, they can have lasting ramifications.

“You can’t play around with that kind of stuff, you need to be really careful.”

Hunt said that exBRSD employees were contacted about their past experience with Ryley and Holden schools.

They were asked: “Why do we feel now that parents aren’t being heard? What do we feel like we can’t make a difference anymore?”

She said they learned that there was a time when trustees came to Council meetings, and were part of the school,

and when school councils could veto who came into the schools, [had input into staffing choices] She said parents are questioning the accountability of trustees to the parents in their wards, she said we’re not really sure about how the school is doing with the division, in terms of communication, out of other positive changes that have been made.

She said there are questions about how information is conveyed by BRSD. “Why didn’t we have this information earlier?”

Hunt noted that attention has been given to finances, and there’s a sense from area parents that the division is reactive, which is concerning to her council. “You could get behind disturbing plans if you can see some long-term vision behind them,” rather than knee-jerk reactivity.

Hunt asked the board to delay a decision until the full impact of the new funding model and budget are determined.

She also brought up a disturbing issue brought up in conversations with the community. “There is a culture of fear with our teachers that isn’t okay,” Hunt said, citing conversations with present and

past teachers. “There is a fear that they will be reprimanded, that they will be transferred without wanting to be transferred.

“Some of the conversations that we are having with past staff members are a bit concerning.

“The culture of... whether it is perceived fear or true fear, it is a culture of fear, and that precipitates down through the culture of the organization, and I think it’s a problem.”

Hunt summarized: “The bottom line is that we want you to defeat the motion. We want it gone. We want to look at the new funding model.

If we have to combine the schools, it needs to be a decision that is made collaboratively with the communities because it’s the right thing to do.

“We like it the way we have it - no one likes change, but we want it to be done in a way that makes sense, that engages us so that we can get behind any decision that has to be made.”

Kevin Smook from Beaver County Council was the next presenter.

He told the board, “Closing a school will impact and potentially devastate our community.

It’s just the truth.

“We need to invest in

schools, and not necessarily with money. People need to support our own schools, health care, and commerce.

“People have to do that, and we definitely need the support. The school division needs to do that, too.

“I understand, truly, that this is a multi-faceted issue, on the one hand, we see declining enrollment, and you’re trying to react to that, and on the other side I understand that there are pressures as well from the amount of money that you are receiving.

“So I understand there are challenges, but your job is to face the challenges.”

He said the timeline for the process has been “too tight. We have resilient communities, when given a chance.”

Smook noted that six of eight current trustees are rural: “You know how this will impact your communities.

“This impacts Beaver County every bit as much as the urban centres, as many of our kids bus to the schools.

“We are being encouraged to collaborate with our urban partners, and Bill 25 indicates that municipalities must enter

into an agreement with school boards within three years.

“Yet we’ve not had any discussions with you whatsoever on a decision that will no doubt have a serious impact on our viability.

“A loss of the Holden School, a loss of the high school in Ryley, is a loss to both of those communities, but it truly is a loss to Beaver County.”

The final presentation was given by Steve Marusiak, Deputy Mayor of the Village of Holden.

Marusiak told the board that Holden Council did not feel that enough consultation has been done to properly make a decision, asking for a one year extension to be given before any changes are made.

Marusiak said that the village isn’t looking for solutions today, but that it would like to be involved in conversations about transportation and alternative programming that might be considered for the future.

Board Chair Norman Erickson thanked each of the presenters for coming before the board, and promised that the board would give consideration to everything said that day.